Is Denver in lead for 2016 Republican National Convention? Dallas thinks so

The 2012 Republican National Convention was in Tampa. (Helen H. Richardson, The Denver Post)

Denver’s 2016 Republican National Convention bid committee is confident of Denver’s chances, but some observers here see Dallas as the city to beat among the four remaining contenders.

Down in Texas, though, something interesting happened this week after a few shakeups. Las Vegas, seen by Dallas officials as their chief competitor, withdrew from consideration, and Dallas also is dealing with potential venue problems. Turns out, at least one Dallas bid supporter now sees Denver as the leading candidate. The others still vying for the 2016 convention are Cleveland and Kansas City, Mo.

It would seem to be consistent with Libertarian views. Also, I wonder if legalization of pot would result in any worse image problems than the fact that lots of counties around Dallas are still dry–prohibition of even alcohol still exists–and there are some people active in the Dallas area GOP who think that Grover Norquist is a Muslim:

Isn’t this why we built the convention center? We need to attract big conventions. The poll in the Post Denver is just under 50% yes. If we can’t make money off a convention like the RNC, why have a convention center. My vote would be yes, host it if at all possible. And if the marijuana thingy is so positive, then tout that to the RNC. HA.

Joey Bunch has been a reporter for 28 years, including the last 12 at The Denver Post. For various newspapers he has covered the environment, water issues, politics, civil rights, sports and the casino industry.